Full-Day Private Guided Jewish Heritage Tour in Istanbul
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Full-Day Private Guided Jewish Heritage Tour in Istanbul

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(9 reviews)
7h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We ensure that each Jewish Heritage Tour leaves you with treasured memories. Our itinerary combines explorations of Jewish history in Asia Minor; important local sites of interest; cultural delights, and the company of like-minded travelers. You’ll enjoy ease, camaraderie, and in-depth educational content with our knowledgeable guides.
Visiting Ahrida Synagogue can be done only with appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. We send a request letter to management with passport details and full names of visitors as an official Travel Agency latest one week before than tour date.
The visitors have to share passport details after booking this tour. Visiting the Synagogues and the Jewish Museums requires permits from Chief Rabia and you will need to present your passport during the visits.
Also Ahrida Synagogue is a functional Synagogue and is not a museum. They charge donation 45EURO per person. When we send our guest passport reservation, we send donation via bank.

Available options

Full-Day Private Guided Jewish Heritage Tour in Istanbul

Pickup included

What's included

Private Minivan with driver
Proffesional Guidance who has enough knowledge about Jewish Heritage
Parking

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Ahrida Synagogue was built by Romaniotes (Greek Jews), dating back to the 1430s, from the city of Ohrid (called 'Ahrid' in Greek) in what was then the Ottoman Empire and is now North Macedonia. Neve Shalom is said to have moved to Constantinople more than 550 years ago Sephardi Jews arrived in the Ottoman Empire from the Iberian peninsula beginning in 1492, and soon were a larger group of Jews in population than the Romaniotes. The Romaniotes of Istanbul, as in many communities, including Thessaloniki became assimilated into the Sephardic culture and adopted the Sephardic liturgy as well as the language of the Sefardim, Judezmo. The Ahrida synagogue building, one of the two ancient synagogues in Istanbul's Golden Horn. Ahrida Synagogue is known for its boat-shaped tevah (the reading platform, known in Ashkenazi communities as a bimah). It is also the only synagogue in Istanbul at which Sabbatai Zevi, founder of the Jewish Sabbatean movement, prayed.

2

Yanbol Synagogue was built by Sephardi Jews who moved from the Bulgarian town of Yambol to Istanbul during the 15th century. The synagogue is also known as the Bulgarian Synagogue owing to the origin of the community. It was constructed in the 18th century. However, it underwent repairs during the end of the 19th century thus the structure today is not the original. Today, the synagogue is only open for Shabbat services due to a decrease in the Jewish community in the area.

3
Stop 3

Balat district is in the old city on the European side of Istanbul, on the western shore of the Golden Horn. Historically, it was the center of the Jewish community in Istanbul.
As in neighbouring Fener, Balat's back streets are lined with colorful small stone two and three-storey terraced houses and a few grander mansions. It is one of highlights of Istanbul to visit. Many of the houses have been repainted in bright colours to give a distinctive feel to the neighborhood.

4
Stop 4

Neve Shalom is the central and largest Sephardic synagogue of Istanbul. It is open to service especially on Shabbats, High Holidays, bar mitzvahs, funerals and weddings.
The synagogue was built in response to an increase in the Jewish population in the old Galata neighborhood in the late 1930s. A Jewish primary school was torn down in 1949 for that purpose and the synagogue was built on its ruins. The construction completed in 1951.

5
Stop 5

Jewish Museum in Istanbul includes sections on the intermingling cultures of Jewish and Muslim Turks and ethnographic articles that depict the traditions of Turkish Jews, as well as the historical accounts of the Jewish odyssey from Spain to Turkey. So It is totally different museum than other museums in western countries.

6
Stop 6

The Galata Tower is an old Genoese tower in the Galata part of the Beyoğlu district of Istanbul, Turkey. It was built as a watchtower at the highest point of the (lost) Walls of Galata district. the tower is now an exhibition space and museum of Tourism Ministry. It is a symbol of Beyoğlu and Istanbul.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

The Ashkenazi Synagogue is an Ashkenazi synagogue located near the Galata Tower in Karaköy It is the only currently active Ashkenazi synagogue in Istanbul open to visits and prayers. The synagogue was founded by Jews of Austrian origin in 1900. It is also the last remaining synagogue from a total of three built by Ashkenazim, as the population of Ashkenazi Jews accounts for 4 percent of the total Jewish population of Turkey. Visits to the synagogue can be done during weekday mornings only with appointments.

8

A gorgeous, Gaudí-esque stairway constructed in Istanbul by a prominent Jewish family. Kamondo Family had built these stairs for their kids in 1860s to go to the school.

What's not included

All drinks and meals are excluded
Admission fee of Ahrida Synagogue ( 25USD per person)
Admission fee of Jewish Museum 15EURO per person
Admission fee of Galata Tower-30 EURO per person
Galata Tower
The Quincentennial Foundation Museum of Turkish Jews
Ahrida Synagogue

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
9 reviews
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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour can be done only on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Because of Shabbat, Synagogues do not give appointments to visit on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

About Turkey

Turkey, a transcontinental country, bridges Europe and Asia, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the serene beaches of the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, Turkey is a destination that caters to a wide range of interests.

Top Attractions

Hagia Sophia

A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its massive dome and stunning mosaics are a testament to its historical significance.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Moderate (around 1000 TRY or 150 USD)

Ephesus

One of the most well-preserved ancient cities, Ephesus features impressive ruins, including the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre.

Historical Half-day to full day Moderate (around 150 TRY or 25 USD)

Cappadocia

Known for its unique rock formations and underground cities, Cappadocia offers hot air balloon rides, hiking, and cave dwellings.

Nature/Adventure 2-3 days Moderate to Expensive (depending on activities)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kebabs

Grilled or skewered meats, often seasoned with spices and served with bread, rice, or vegetables.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made with various types of meat or vegetarian options.

Meze

A selection of small dishes, often including dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and various salads.

Appetizer Can be vegetarian or vegan, depending on the specific dishes.

Baklava

A sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey or syrup.

Dessert Contains nuts and sugar, can be made with various types of nuts.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cappadocia Paragliding in Oludeniz Skiing in Uludağ Hammam (Turkish bath) Beach relaxation in Antalya Yoga retreats in Fethiye Visiting museums and historical sites Attending traditional music and dance performances

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The tourist crowds are manageable, and the prices are relatively lower compared to the summer peak season.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Turkish
  • Widely spoken: English, German, French
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Turkey is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, scams, and occasional political protests can occur. Stay informed and take necessary precautions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air
  • Istanbul Airport • 35 km from Istanbul city center
  • Sabiha Gökçen International Airport • 32 km from Istanbul city center
By train

Istanbul Sirkeci Station, Istanbul Haydarpaşa Station

By bus

Istanbul Bus Terminal (Otogar), Ankara Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system in Istanbul is efficient and covers major attractions. Other cities have smaller metro networks.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sultanahmet Beşiktaş Kadıköy

Day trips

Princes' Islands
15-20 km from Istanbul • Half day to full day

A group of islands known for their peaceful atmosphere, historic mansions, and horse-drawn carriages. Perfect for a relaxing escape from the city.

Bursa
100 km from Istanbul • Full day

Known as the first capital of the Ottoman Empire, Bursa offers a rich history, beautiful mosques, and the famous Uludağ mountain for outdoor activities.

Troy
300 km from Istanbul • Full day

The ancient city of Troy, famous for the Trojan War and its archaeological significance. The site features the iconic Trojan Horse and well-preserved ruins.

Festivals

Istanbul Biennial • September to November (every two years) Ephesus International Festival • May to June International Izmir Short Film Festival • April

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Turkish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
  • Use the Istanbulkart for discounted public transportation fares in Istanbul
  • Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
  • Bargain politely when shopping at bazaars and markets
  • Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 6
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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